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An Orcadian Orchard

Part 2 Project 2023
Connor Grant Downie
Robert Gordon University | UK
This entry explores the potential of an orchard as a means to regenerate a coastal village on Orkney’s Bay of Firth as a community with a sustainable approach to living and working.

As early as the 16th century, Fruit walls were used to grow sensitive crops across Northern Europe before energy-intense greenhouses and imports with unsustainable food-miles took over. This project revives a low-tech agricultural model to demonstrate the potential of seasonal agriculture in Orkney’s temperate northern climate.

Orchards offer lessons about local, seasonal agriculture, and preserving and restoring biodiversity. They reward an appreciation for the natural environment with plentiful harvests and green spaces that address concerns about well-being and health.

The proposal introduces rotationally grazed orchard pigs to contribute to the sustainable operation of the orchard and create further value and opportunity within the community. The orchard harvests fuel the production of seasonal and sustainable food and drink in the proposal’s cyder hall and bacon factory.

A diversity of playful traditions from across the world celebrate the culmination of the hard work that contributes to seasonal agriculture. The architecture seeks to connect with these joyful traditions and create a characterful image that celebrates the conclusion of the orchard’s cultivation.

Connor Grant Downie

Tutor(s)
David Vila Domini
2023
• Page Hits: 2437         • Entry Date: 18 September 2023         • Last Update: 02 October 2023